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Ihrir: Oasis in the Tassili n'Ajjer

Discover Ihrir, a hidden oasis in the Tassili n'Ajjer mountains, offering ancient rock art and stunning natural beauty in the Algerian Sahara.

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Ihrir, also known as Iherir, is a captivating village nestled within a valley in the Tassili n'Ajjer mountain range near Bordj El Haouas, Algeria. This hidden oasis, sustained by the Oued Iherir, has been inhabited since Neolithic times and offers a unique blend of dramatic landscapes, ancient rock art, and serene natural beauty.

A brief summary to Ihrir

  • CC45+CRP, Bordj El Haouas, DZ

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking to fully enjoy the various trails around the area.
  • Visit early in the morning to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and catch beautiful sunrises.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy by the water; it's a perfect spot for a relaxed meal surrounded by nature.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From the center of Bordj El Haouas, follow signs towards Ihrir. Be prepared for rough, unpaved tracks as you leave the main road. The journey is approximately 20km and can take around 45 minutes to an hour depending on the vehicle and road conditions. There are no tolls on this route. Parking is available near the village entrance; inquire locally about appropriate parking areas.

  • Public Transport

    From the main transport hub in Bordj El Haouas, shared taxis or 4x4 vehicles may be available for hire to reach Ihrir. Negotiate the fare in advance. A typical fare for a seat in a shared taxi or hiring a private 4x4 can range from DZD 1,500 to DZD 3,000 depending on the number of passengers and the vehicle. Confirm the drop-off point is as close to Ihrir as possible, as some vehicles may only go part of the way due to the rough terrain.

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Discover more about Ihrir

Ihrir, a village also known as Iherir, is located in the Djanet province of Algeria, within the commune of Bordj El Haouas. Situated in a valley in the Tassili n'Ajjer mountains, this village is sustained by the Oued Iherir, creating a striking contrast between the arid desert and the lush oasis. The area has been inhabited since Neolithic times, with the population in the valley consistently remaining above 1,000 during the 20th century. The village is known for its dramatic mountain ranges that rise as high as 300 meters on all sides, offering breathtaking views and a sense of seclusion. Prehistoric art dating back to 9000 BC can be found at the Iheren sites on the nearby Tadjelahine plateau, attesting to the area's rich history. These frescoes depict various animals and figures, providing insights into the lives of early inhabitants. The valley is a protected nature park, although the protection primarily focuses on the frescoes rather than the flora and fauna. It is also recognized as a wetland of global interest by the Ramsar Convention. The gueltas (natural pools) near Iherir are surrounded by Cape bulrush, while oleanders and French Tamarisks flourish along the riverbed. The area is home to diverse wildlife, including jungle cats and sand cats. Today, the local economy relies on agriculture, including the cultivation of dates, figs, grapes, and wheat, as well as livestock farming and fishing in the gueltas. Tourism, drawn by the rock art and the stunning natural beauty of the Tassili n'Ajjer, also plays a significant role. Visitors can explore the numerous trails for hiking and immerse themselves in the region's natural wonders.

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